About Us

Costner Elementary School is proud to be home to the Leadership Academy, where students grow as confident learners and leaders. The academy focuses on nine key areas: self-confidence, responsibility, self-direction, teamwork, communication, leadership, initiative, creativity and problem solving.

As one of four schools in Gaston County using the Leader in Me program, Costner weaves leadership into everyday learning. Based on Stephen Covey’s Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, students learn how their classroom lessons connect to lifelong leadership skills.

Leadership opportunities are built into school life. Students can apply to be part of Student Lighthouse Teams, where they take on real leadership roles such as making morning announcements, managing the outdoor sign, planting flowers around campus and more.

Costner Elementary is the starting point of a K–12 leadership pathway in the Dallas area. Students who begin their journey here can continue building their skills at W.C. Friday Middle School and North Gaston High School through the Leader in Me program.